MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 22: A guest wears black sunglasses, a white tank-top from Prada, a black shiny leather with embroidered brown fur interior oversized aviator coat, a pale pink shiny leather handbag, a gold Clash ring from Cartier, a gold Juste Un Clou ring from Cartier, a dark brown wool and half pale pink tulle long skirt from Prada, white shiny varnished leather platform heels shoes from Valentino , outside Prada, during the Milan Fashion Week – Womenswear Spring/Summer 2023 on September 22, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
This year, outerwear trends have been defined by statement-making jackets. And while biker chic styles ruled the fall, winter will be the season of the aviator jacket.
For proof, take a look at the fall 2022 runways, which were filled with oversized, shearling-adorned jackets à la Top Gun. Then on TikTok, where searches for aviator jackets have grown over 800 million views.
With their protective shearling and oversized silhouettes, it seems fashion is signaling that it’s time to buckle up. After all, their roots in early 20th century military uniforms and their subsequent dominance in pop culture — including the Top Gun franchise — carry a deep association with high-risk adventure, or at least the promise of it. And there’s no denying this year was marked by adrenaline. While the coronavirus pandemic is still here, the return of social events and travel ushered us to go, go, go! Naturally, fashion found a way to channel this need for speed, from dopamine-inducing bright colors and road-ready biker chic styles to sky-high platforms that put many on edge after years of flat footwear. Now, as aviator jackets take flight, the invitation to go forth with adventure is clear.
Thankfully, this classic staple is not new to many people’s wardrobes. Much like their biker relatives, aviator jackets are easily available at vintage and thrift stores, making them a more sustainable option for staying on-trend this season. Unlike 2022’s bikercore craze that really encouraged people to hit the gas pedal, both brands and street style darlings have offered a few options that take the aviator jackets into glam territory. Miu Miu, for example, showed cropped dark-hued versions, paired with leather skirts, as well as sequinned iterations, styled with sheer dresses. Burberry took a more classic approach in the form of a sleek, tan bomber jacket, paired with a matching maxi skirt and knee-high boots, while Dion Lee pushed the staple forward with furry fabric over the lapels and sleeves, paired with a cargo mini skirt. Creators like Alexandra Pereira have also taken advantage of the current UGG craze, matching their shearling detail with suede aviator jackets.
So, will you take off this season? If so, here are a few options to channel the trend.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Looking for a last-minute gift for the person who has everything? Want to treat yourself to a chic blouse to wear to your next festive gathering? What about a warm coat that's been tried and tested? Fortunately for you, our fashion team is dedicated to trialling new garments every month and now we're taking you along with us. Consider this our 'Close Friends' Insta story, if you will.
That's right, rather than gatekeeping all the best bits (because exclusivity is no fun), we’re sharing the details of all our favorite pieces from November along with styling and buying tips, too. So before you buy anything new, scroll on to see what we genuinely think is worth your coin.
Refinery29's selection is purely editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items we love, although some of the items featured in this article have been PR gifted. Additionally, as part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us.
"Ever since the resurgence of naked dresses on the runways, I’ve been on a hunt for a gown to recreate the look this holiday season. This dress – from Camille Charrière’s very good (and party-ready) collaboration with Mango – is unfortunately now sold out but I also have my eye on this mini lace number."
"I’m not typically a sneaker person aside from my trusty Converse high tops but there’s something so cool and chic about the New Balance 9060's newest colorway, Truffle. I'm in love with this mix of maroon and dark, ashy grey."
- Esther Newman, UK Affiliate Writer
New Balance Truffle with Rich Earth and Magnet, $, available at New Balance
"Believe it or not, these are my first-ever Pangaia garms and I can now say the hype is warranted. This set is so thick and comfy and it's the type of tracksuit that can be dressed up for a day out as much as it can be worn for a whole week around the house. Given the current temperature of my apartment, I may be doing just that."
- Ebony-Renee Baker, UK Fashion Editor
Pangaia Color Block Loose Leg Track Pants, $, available at Pangaia
Pangaia Recycled Cotton Color Block Jacket, $, available at Pangaia
"I’ll always remember 2022 as the year I finally got into denim (you can read more about it here). This is one of the pairs I’ve enjoyed wearing the most because of the extra large, wide-leg shape that makes them feel like trousers. I wore them to Thanksgiving lunch with my family and if they made it through a turkey meal without making me want to rip them off in the end, they’ve passed the test."
- Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
Levi's Xl Flood Women's Jeans, $, available at Levi's
"I am a sucker for mini bags for the way they add a touch of playfulness to any look. This bag from It handbag brand By Far is equal parts practical (thanks to its versatile blue-green color) and cheeky (as a result of its pencil case-looking, narrow shape)."
"I can’t get enough of gold jewelery, especially if we’re talking about tarnish-free hoop earrings. I recently discovered By Rae, an indie brand selling classic, minimalist jewelery coated in 14k or 18k gold, meaning that everything is super durable and waterproof. These hoops have just the right circumference to make a statement and can be worn with or without the T-bar attachments."
- Venus Wong, UK Shopping Writer
By Rae The Piha T-bar Hoops, $, available at By Rae
"All the cool girls on my TikTok feed are sporting skinny scarves right now and while the aesthetic is appealing, London’s freezing temperatures mean the reality is not. Instead, I’ve fallen hard and fast for this beautiful, hand-crocheted granny square scarf from Amano. It’s made in Ecuador and comes with a description of the person who personally worked on your piece. It’s super soft and looks great with everything (I’ve had many compliments!)."
- Esther Newman, UK Affiliate Writer
Amano Big Alpaca Crochet Scarf, $, available at Amano
"I've been looking for the perfect pair of black leather loafers for years now but have been wary about taking the plunge. I want something well made but high-end pairs from the likes of Gucci are just too far out of my budget. On a recent trip to Majorca, these calf leather shoes from family-owned shop Carmina caught my eye. The gold-tone horsebit detailing is so lovely and I just know that this investment will last me for years to come."
- Venus Wong, UK Shopping Writer
Carmina WOMEN HORSEBIT LOAFERS 1891 XIM, $, available at Carmina
"I’ve struggled for a long time to find coats that are an outfit in themselves and this one hits the mark. I’ve worn it with light wash jeans and a white sweater to the office on an extra cold day, and it made the 20-minute walk from the train to the office a light breeze."
- Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
ME+EM Italian Wool Military Forever Coat, $, available at ME+EM
"I love a statement top and this big-sleeved metallic blouse from modest-wear label Leem definitely fits the bill – especially for all my holiday celebrations this month. I've had my eye on a similar (sold out) top from Cult Gaia for a while now but this one is similar and well-made, too."
"I love me a pair of Nikes and I've been meaning to add a pair of AF1s to my rotation for ages. This recently released edition is up my alley as it's not too plain and packs a ton of punch with its cream-colored accents, silver hardware and perforated stars all over. I got them in Net-A-Porter's Black Friday sale for 30% off (PSA: at the time of writing, they're now 40% off!)."
Welcome to Aisle Style, a series that features the most untraditional engagement ring trends, coolest bridal designers to know, and brides who walk to the beat of their own “Canon In D.” Buck the tradition and say I do to personal style — the aisle is yours.
While diamonds can be forever — specifically the sparkly white kind that instantly has you humming the first movement of “Palladio” — they’re not the only option for a ring on that finger. If your taste leans toward avant-garde, understated, or you simply don’t want a ring that looks like everyone else’s, turn to the best non-traditional engagement rings instead.
From colored gemstones to unusual orientations and settings that look like genuine works of art, tons of unique engagement rings abound from brands ranging from indie to world-famous. Unique stone cuts make for a reinvigorated approach to white diamonds if you’re on the fence between something timeless and distinctive. Meanwhile, geometric shapes like shields, hexagons, and kites ensure your ring is stand-out. On the more affordable end of the engagement ring spectrum, there are portrait cuts, which are flat and transparent, and alternatives like moissanite, lab-grown, or trendy salt-and-pepper diamonds.
There’s even the option to rock a fanciful band instead of a stone ring, which is not only more understated but also practical and durable for everyday wear. Even more, a band is super versatile for stacking and interchangeable on other fingers, should you choose to upgrade your ring for an anniversary down the road.
Then there are the non-traditional settings to consider: East-West, off-kilter, and suspended or floating settings will give even the most classic cuts like emerald, round brilliant, pear, and oval shapes a uniquely modern look. At the same time, knife-edge bands, bolder prongs, and flush-mount settings appear decidedly edgier, whether you embrace a minimalist or elaborate design. Finally, mixed-metal choices always equates to cool.
Of course, antique and vintage rings are the most sustainable and instantly gratifiable way to obtain a one-of-kind ring that no one else will have.
Ahead, discover 29 non-traditional engagement rings guaranteed to make you forget all about diamond solitaires.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.An oval solitaire — one of the most traditional (and popular!) settings — feels unexpected with a yellow diamond center stone.
Bucherer Fine Jewellery Joy solitaire (price upon request), $, available at BuchererThis two-stone design featuring brilliant-cut shield diamonds is a modern take on the recently popular Toi et Moi ring.
Eva Fehren White Diamond Trillion Queen Ring, $, available at 1st DibsA floating marquise solitaire stone nestled within a delicate V-shaped band is incredibly eye-catching while simultaneously timeless.
Vrai The Signature V Solitaire Ring, $, available at VraiWhat’s more striking than one Asscher-cut diamond? Two — set in an open-wrap design featuring two tapered baguettes and a rounded square band.
Ashley Zhang Margaret Asscher Cut Engagement Ring, $, available at Ashley ZhangEmbrace the chunky engagement ring trend with Azlee’s East-West-set hexagon diamond enveloped in a weighty yellow gold staircase setting.
Azlee Empress Diamond Staircase Ring, $, available at AzleeA spray of diamonds adds a modern touch to a vintage-inspired turquoise ring.
Marrow Fine Turquoise & White Diamond Navette Ring, $, available at Marrow FineTraditional stone cuts are made new thanks to a Toi et Moi ring setting.
Ring Concierge Toi et Moi Engagement Ring, $, available at Ring ConciergeThis ring is a perfect example of how a classically cut stone, like a pear, immediately appears non-traditional when set off-kilter on a simple band. Bonus points for an eye-catching color, like tawny.
Aaryah Nyoka Ring, $, available at AaryahA chunky, vintage-inspired signet setting in an East-West orientation modernizes a classic marquise diamond — the perfect durable non-traditional engagement ring.
Kinn The Eloise, $, available at KinnA black diamond is the ultimate non-traditional approach to a rose-cut round diamond set in a delicate recycled yellow gold setting.
Catbird Odile, The Swan Supreme, $, available at CatbirdMade for the hopeless romantics, this heart-shaped diamond is made even more stunning with the addition of tapered baguette-cut side stones.
Graff Promise Heart Shape Diamond Engagement Ring baguette cut side stones, platinum, $, available at GraffThis ring, showcasing a rare and exotic brilliant round-cut Cornflower Blue Ceylon sapphire, is a total showstopper. If the alternative center stone weren’t enough, the geometric octagonal setting adds to its unique allure with a durable feel.
Marei Octavian Brilliant-Cut Cornflower Blue Sapphire Engagem, $, available at MareiAnother modern take on the storied Toi et Moi engagement ring that will appeal to demure tastes is this flush-mount design in a thick, but not overly chunky, band.
Mejuri Toi et Moi Diamond Ring, $, available at MejuriAsscher- and radiant-cut stones never looked as bold as in this pink sapphire-and-diamond combo. The rose gold setting takes things a step further for non-traditional types.
Jemma Wynne Prive Pink Sapphire and Asscher Cut Diamond Ring, $, available at Jemma WynneA mix of floating stones on a domed gold band epitomizes modern bridal style. Even better, this Grace Lee design — featuring marquise, oval-shaped, and pear-shaped diamonds — comes in yellow gold, rose, and white gold options.
Grace Lee Demi Demi Plus Oval, Marquise, Pear Ring, $, available at Grace LeeFor a minimal-meets-modern engagement ring, A.M. Thorne’s rose-cut, pear-shaped salt-and-pepper diamond is exceptional.
A.M. Thorne Salt + Pepper Pear Diamond Ring, $, available at A.M. ThorneShahla Karimi’s ultra-delicate curved band is a spellbinding, non-traditional way to set off a classic brilliant-cut round diamond.
Shahla Zaha Brilliant Wrap Ring, $, available at ShahlaSimplicity and distinctiveness combine in this Asscher-cut emerald solitaire. The North-South, East-West prongs are a captivatingly subtle detail.
ILA Spectrum Ring, $, available at CatbirdLizzie Mandler’s East-West marquise diamond, set on a thin knife-edge band, is inspired by her mother’s wedding ring from the ’70s — a spectacular choice for those seeking an ultra-delicate ring with distinction.
Lizzie Mandler Knife Edge Diamond & 18kt Gold Ring, $, available at MatchesFashionThis gray diamond ring is a winner for an avant-garde take on a brilliant round cut. The rose-gold prongs add another element of distinction.
Mateo Point of Focus 14-karat gold, topaz and diamond ring, $, available at Net-A-PorterA double-band ring featuring an off-kilter pear diamond is peak non-traditional for those with a minimal sensibility.
Jade Trau Sadie Diamond & 18kt Gold Solitaire Ring, $, available at MatchesFashionColored stones and unique shapes are among Seattle-based Valerie Madison’s signatures, like this bezel-set half-moon salt and pepper diamond.
Valerie Madison Bezel Half-Moon Salt and Pepper Diamond Engagement Ring, $, available at Valerie MadisonThis seemingly suspended trillion-cut ring is not only unique enough on its own but — with a pave band that comes in white, rose, and yellow gold — also allows for some fun (and very modern and cool) stacking.
The Clear Cut Triple Threat Trillion Ring, $, available at The Clear CutHarwell Godfrey’s knife-edge design is weighty with plenty of brilliance if going the band route. The gold triangle details represent a compass motif as a subtle reminder of choosing a direction or path.
Harwell Godfrey Rosa Pave Knife Edge Band, $, available at Harwell GodfreyIn a world where minimalist solitaire rings reign supreme, this vintage-inspired cluster design (a look that originated in the Georgian era) feels decidedly fresh in a two-tone setting.
Stone and Strand The Ava Ring in Yellow Gold, $, available at Stone and StrandIf you’re into timeless antiques with stand-out elements, look no further than this old European-cut diamond surrounded by lustrous rubies in a rose gold, platinum, and black rhodium setting.
Erstwhile Ruby Wings Ring, $, available at Catbird
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Recently, as I was doing my cold-weather clothing swap, I noticed that I had the basic staples covered but was lacking pants that truly reflected my sense of style. I wanted "main character energy" pants. If you're asking yourself, "What in the world are 'main character's energy' pants?!?" I simply mean pants that are the focal point of your outfit rather than simply a pair of basic bottoms that will go with anything.
Don't get me wrong — I love and adore my trusty black leggings. After all, they are a staple in most of our wardrobes year-round. But the following styles are just as easy to wear and style, just with a bit more oomph.
Here are five of the hottest 'main character energy' types of plus size pants that you should consider adding to your closet, including sexy leather, bold metallic, and preppy printed trousers — because we think you deserve all the options!
Leather & Faux Leather Plus-Size Pants
When it comes to fall and winter wardrobe staples, a great pair of leather (or faux leather) pants are a must. Whether you chose real leather or vegan leather, these pants will keep you warm without sacrificing style. This year, you can practically find leather pant options in any style you can imagine — plus sizes included.
Ahead, you’ll see some top picks in plus size options, including work-friendly picks. If you are looking for a more sporty and casual option, check out the River Island faux leather leggings, which feature a skinny fit and elasticized waistband for all-day comfort.
NYDJ Plus Size Marilyn Faux Leather Jeans, $, available at Bloomingdale's
Maeve The Colette Faux Leather Pants, $, available at Anthropologie
River Island Plus Black Faux Leather Leggings, $, available at River Island
The Drop Theor Vegan Leather Trouser, $, available at Amazon
Ellos Skinny Leather Pants, $, available at Catherine's
Printed Plus-Size Pants
This pant category is so much fun. You can really show off your personality and unique sense of style; choose from a classic print pattern like the Velveteen Tartan pants from Talbots, or go for the grunge-inspired gothic rose print from ASOS. Another bonus perk that comes with wearing these printed beauties? They double as conversation starters.
Talbots Velveteen Straight Leg Pants - Tartan, $, available at Talbots
Lucy & Yak L.E. Alexa Trousers, $, available at Lucy & Yak
ASOS CURVE Pull On Kick Flare Pants in Grunge Floral Print, $, available at ASOS
Princess Polly Radiant Pants, $, available at Princess Polly
Don’t be afraid of taking up space in wide-leg pants. I know that as plus-size people, we are often told what is and what isn't flattering and that looser styles should be avoided… but we are letting go of those archaic (and frankly fatphobic) fashion “tips.” Personally, I have never gotten more compliments than when I wear wide-leg trousers! If you are still on the fence about grabbing a pair of wide-leg pants, or don't know where to look, check out these options.
Tamara Malas Partner Pant, $, available at Verishop
Melrose and Market Satin Pull-On Pants, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Rebdolls Fall Favorite Corduroy Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Rebdolls
Torrid Pull-On Wide Leg Stretch Lurex High-Rise Pant, $, available at Torrid
Metallic Plus-Size Pants
Shimmer and shine with these showstopping bottoms. The metallic trend is huge right now, and it's honestly easy to see why. Whether you don a more casual option, like the ones from A New Day, or chose the risque but oh-so-stunning metallic mesh pants (perfect for warmer climates, or to take with you on a beach vacation), you’ll be sure to turn heads.
Gabi Fresh x FTF Robyn Ultra High Rise Metallic Pants, $, available at Fashion to Figure
Forever21 Plus Plus Size Split Hem Leggings, $, available at Forever21
Fashion to Figure Bailey Metallic Mesh Pants, $, available at Fashion to Figure
NastyGal Plus Size Sequin Kick Flared Pants, $, available at NastyGal
Plus-Size Jeans
Jeans will never be out of style; they are staples for a reason. These versatile bottoms can go from casual to dressy with ease. Skinny jeans will always have a special place in our hearts, but don’t be afraid to make room for other styles like flares or straight legs, or jeans with embellishments. We picked the following plus-size jeans because they are anything but basic.
Madewell The Plus Perfect Vintage Straight Jean in Becker Wash: Button-Front Edition, $, available at Madewell
Universal Standard ComfortDenim Stovepipe Jeans, $, available at Universal Standard
Pilcro The Icon Flare Jeans, $, available at Anthropologie
Levi's 711 Skinny Women's Jeans (Plus Size), $, available at Levi's
Ashley Stewart Embellished Distressed Skinny Jeans, $, available at Ashley Stewart
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